I would have thought the Airbus System Logic would prevent gear retraction on the ground? I'm not suggesting the gear lever was selected up, but thought there'd be a general logic to prevent gear retract on the ground?
It does. There are several near/far prox sensors dotted about. To get the gear to move on the ground the prox sensors need to be 'gagged' with metal slivers to simulate a 'near' target position. The computer logic will then let you raise the gear lever on ground. Assuming the gear pins are fitted the doors will open the gear will shudder a bit when the 'up' line pressurises and we all breath again.
The rumour network has suggested that the eng was replacing a landing gear lever module. An unconfirmed rumour suggests that the crew came along, saw the nose gear pin in place and removed it prior to the function test. Personally I find that hard to believe but it will stir the pot until we know more.
Glad no one was hurt. Could have been nasty.
